Coral Reef Resources of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands; Initial Regulations

Résumé

NMFS issues this proposed rule to implement the Fishery Management Plan for Corals and Reef Associated Plants and Invertebrates of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (FMP). This rule proposes restrictions on the taking of coral reef resources in or from the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) around Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. NMFS, based on a preliminary evaluation of the FMP, has disapproved two measures involving the adoption of state permit and reporting requirements because the state permit systems are not yet fully developed, and the state regulations authorizing these permits, where they exist, do not satisfy the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act, the Magnuson Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson Act), and other applicable laws. The proposed rule would implement the remaining measures in the FMP. The intended effect is to protect important marine resources.